Mexican Regulations by Drone Class- What Are They?

The Mexican Regulations by Drone Class establish guidelines for different types of drones based on their weight, operational risk, and intended use. By defining classes such as Micro, Small, Large, and Certified Category, Mexico’s regulatory framework ensures that operators comply with safety standards that align with the unique requirements of each drone type. This structured approach helps recreational and commercial users alike understand their responsibilities under Mexican regulations, promoting safe and accountable drone operations.

1. Micro Drones (Below 250g)

Micro drones are the smallest category, typically used for recreational purposes due to their lightweight nature and limited operational risk. These drones face the fewest restrictions but must still follow certain basic guidelines.

• Registration Requirements: Micro drones under 250 grams are exempt from AFAC’s mandatory registration, simplifying recreational use
• Operational Limits: Despite their smaller size, micro drones must comply with basic operational rules, including maintaining a visual line of sight (VLOS) and respecting the 120-meter altitude limit
• Restricted Areas: Micro drones are not allowed to fly in restricted areas, such as near airports, military zones, or densely populated gatherings

Example of Compliance: A recreational operator flying a micro drone in an open park keeps it within VLOS and below the altitude limit, avoiding restricted zones nearby.

2. Small Drones (250g to 2kg)

Small drones cover a wide range of applications, from recreational use to commercial activities like aerial photography and agricultural monitoring. This category introduces more regulatory requirements to ensure safe operations.

• Registration Requirement: All small drones over 250 grams must be registered with AFAC to ensure traceability and accountability
• Insurance and Certification: Commercial operators of small drones must have liability insurance, and may need additional certification depending on the nature of their work
• Operational Restrictions: Small drones must maintain a minimum distance from bystanders and property. A 30-meter buffer is typically recommended unless explicit permission is granted for closer operations

Example of Compliance: A small drone pilot using the drone for commercial real estate photography registers it with AFAC, ensures it has liability insurance, and maintains a safe distance from any bystanders.

3. Large Drones (Above 2kg)

Large drones are used mainly in commercial or industrial applications and require stricter compliance due to the higher risk they pose. This category includes drones used for infrastructure inspections, surveying, and advanced data collection.

• Mandatory Registration: All large drones must be registered with AFAC, whether used recreationally or commercially, and operators must display the registration number clearly on the drone
• Operational Limits and Permissions: Large drones often require additional permissions to operate, especially in controlled or urban airspaces. Operators conducting Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations must have specific certifications and authorizations from AFAC
• Enhanced Safety Protocols: Large drones should be equipped with advanced safety features, including obstacle avoidance systems and geofencing technology, to prevent entry into restricted areas

Example of Compliance: A company using a large drone to inspect pipelines in a rural area registers the drone with AFAC, equips it with geofencing, and secures permission for BVLOS operation.

Certified Category for Advanced Operations

The Certified Category is reserved for high-risk operations involving large drones that pose significant safety concerns, such as transporting hazardous materials, conducting advanced industrial inspections, or handling heavy payloads.

• Rigorous Certification Requirements: Drones in the Certified Category must meet stringent certification standards that align with those for manned aircraft. Operators are required to complete advanced training and pass additional safety evaluations
• Restricted Operational Zones: Certified drones may be limited to specific zones or require special permits for each flight, particularly in populated areas or controlled airspace
• Advanced Safety Equipment: Certified drones must be equipped with specialized safety equipment, such as detect-and-avoid systems, redundant communication links, and backup power sources to mitigate operational risks

Example of Compliance: A mining company operating a heavy-lift drone in a remote area holds a Certified Category license, equips the drone with advanced safety technology, and obtains site-specific permissions for each flight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need to register my micro drone with AFAC?
   • No, micro drones under 250 grams do not require registration with AFAC, although they must still follow basic operational rules.
2. Can I use a small drone for commercial purposes without insurance?
   • No, commercial operators of small drones must have liability insurance to cover any potential damages.
3. Are large drones allowed to fly in urban areas?
   • Only with special permission from AFAC. Urban flights for large drones require additional safety measures and authorization.
4. What are the requirements for flying a drone in the Certified Category?
   • Certified Category drones require stringent certification, specialized safety equipment, and operational limitations based on specific permits.
5. Is BVLOS allowed for small and large drones?
   • Yes, but BVLOS operations require prior authorization from AFAC and adherence to strict safety protocols.

Summary

Understanding the Mexican Regulations by Drone Class is essential for compliance and safe operation across various applications. By following these guidelines, operators ensure that they fly legally, responsibly, and in accordance with the level of risk associated with each drone class.